Improvements will include more computers for public use, a reading space, self-service machines and a new lift. A new-look hall will become a venue for community activities including keep-fit and computer classes.
Paul Convery, the council’s executive member for regeneration and leisure, said: “In a time of savage cuts it seems dubious to be celebrating this, but this library is an important landmark in Islington. Although there are savings to be made, we should invest in public buildings to make them work better.
“As a council our total vision is to improve quality of life, and a library is central to this vision. This is a library that does so much more than lend books – it is an educational resource.
“It is one of our real jewels, and we are determined to preserve what jewels we have.”
The council has vowed not to close any libraries in the borough during the spending cuts.
Kathleen Frenchman, chairman of campaign group Friends of Islington Libraries, which led a campaign to save West Library when it was threatened with closure 20 years ago, said: “Islington is extremely lucky, as its libraries aren’t being threatened, while libraries in Camden and Lewisham are being shut down,” she said.
“Libraries are very important. People have less money these days, and they may not be able to buy newspapers – let alone books – so we need libraries now more than ever.”
West Library received funding through the Big Lottery Fund Scheme, which has invested £15.3m to improve libraries across London, enabling them to offer a range of services beyond their traditional role. Part of the £800,000 grant went towards major improvements to Islington’s North Library, and will also fund activities and staff to run them in West Library.
Alison Rowe, Big Lottery Fund Head of Region for London, said: “Libraries sit at the heart of our communities so are ideally placed to host a range of activities and local services.
“It’s fantastic to see the new and improved Islington West Library, which I’m sure will go from strength to strength as it establishes itself as a key hub for local activities.”
Author Mike Gayle joined Islington residents to celebrate the reopening of the library last Thursday to coincide with World Book Day.
Mr Gayle, who has written a string of successful novels including ‘My Legendary Girlfriend’ and ‘Mr Commitment’, said: “It’s an honour to attend this event – libraries are very special places.”
